Why do we celebrate the Winter Solstice?

Spring is full of new life, Summer is full of fun and Autumn brings color (and a welcome weather change), but what does Winter have to offer beyond short, cold days and bare trees?

A TON! There is so much opportunity for personal growth for children and adults alike. Here are some of the reasons we find Winter worth celebrating:

1. 🌍Gaining an understanding of the Natural World: The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. In talking about this, we introduce kids to the concept of time and the science of Earth's movements, such as the tilt of the planet and how it affects our sunlight. There's so much to discover about this rock we call "home!"

2. 🌱☀️🍂❄️Developing a Deeper Connection to Nature and Seasons: The Winter Solstice is a reminder of the changing seasons and the natural cycles of life. It can help kids develop a sense of wonder about the world around them and encourage outdoor exploration. Understanding the solstices and equinoxes can also promote respect for the resilience of flora and fauna and an appreciation for nature’s rhythms.

3. 😌💭Promoting Mindfulness and Reflection: Traditionally, the Winter Solstice is recognized as a time of renewal, hope, and reflection. It represents the turning point where the days begin to lengthen, symbolizing new beginnings and growth. Celebrating this yearly milestone can encourage kids to embrace time recharging indoors, look back through photos to reflect on the past year, and look forward to the future.

4. 🏠🫶🏻🏫Family and Community Bonding: Celebrations can bring families and communities together. Whether through special meals, crafts, storytelling, decorating or lighting candles to symbolize the return of light, the Winter season provides additional time for children to bond with loved ones and create lasting memories. By sharing our traditions among our school community and reading books about traditions from around the world, kids can learn about the diversity of human cultures.

5. 🎨✂️🖍️Encouraging Creativity: As the weather outside invites us to spend more and more time indoors, we get extra opportunities to make and create! Activities such as art & crafts, writing practice, creating games or engaging in storytelling can stimulate children’s imaginations, develop their artistic skills, and offer an outlet for self-expression.

   
   

For this and much more, we welcome winter and celebrate the solstice- the promise of sunnier days ahead!